Communi-k 1st quarter 2010

KMBI VOL 7 NO 1

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ROSELYN EMBAC:

In the Face of Different Cultures INSIDE:

LEADER’S EDGE: Discover the Strength from Within

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PAGOD KA NA BA? MF INDEX: THE POOR MILLIONAIRE: Find Real Joy at To Offset or How to Build the “My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11) Work Not to Offset Foundations of | 1 Wealthy Life

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Content

In This Issue VOLUME 7 • NO 1 • 1ST QUARTER 2010

News

Tips

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Butuan branch conducts shoreline clean-up

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What to Do Before Disaster Strikes

Fire leaves 28 PMs homeless

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Iwas Heat Stroke Ngayong Tag-init

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Negros marks Fire Prevention Month with safety drills

Home-made Fruit Facial Mask

Biñan, San Francisco gives members a special Valentine treat

Men & Women’s Beauty Secret from the Kitchen

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R&D starts development of agriculture and individual loan products PMs happy to receive bible in the center KMBI establishes 10 new branches

Get Green and Be Happy

Updates 19

CAL2 staff join for teambuilding activity

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209 families benefitted from microinsurance IPO approves KMBI logo registrations

Features 7

Leaders’ Edge: My God is a keeper...and so I must be...

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Leaders’ Edge: Excellence: Are You In or Out?

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Leaders’ Edge: Discover the Strength from Within

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Leaders’ Edge: Find Real Joy at Work

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MF Index: To Offset or Not to Offset

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ENTREP 101: How to Build the Foundation of a Wealthy Life

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In the Face of Different Cultures

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EISTOP: Five branches to go live in 2010 CBEDP to launch one Community Livelihood Enterprise in Naga

ESM declares 2010 as Year of Excellence Luzon clients get entrepreneurship

Stop the Drop: Be Water Smart

Kwento Mo Ba ‘To? 20

Ilabas ang Tunay Mong Kulay Seven Steps to Self Control

Mayroon ka bang natatanging kwento na nais mong ibahagi?

Narito na ang KWENTO MO BA ‘TO? upang magbigay daan sa mga natatanging kwento ng mga empleyado sa operation. Anuman ang iyong kwento, mapa-drama, komedy o action, basta’t sumasalamin sa totoong karanasan sa operation ay tiyak na pasok ang kwento mo dito!

Ipadala lamang ang iyong kwento at larawan sa pamamagitan ng email sa leagatpandan@kmbi.org.ph.

Message

editorial board Edgardo S. Mercedes Adviser

THE EXECUTIVE NOTE

Rizaldy R. Duque Editor-in-Chief Kris Joy G. Dalanon Editor Lea J. Gatpandan Associate Editor John Russel B. Barbosa Rhany P. Barrera Mary Grace M. Burgos Floryfel G. Espiritu Merry Rose U. Francisco Charis Ken C. Layawan Calvin V. Perez Reginold D. delos Reyes Ma. Belen M. Sison Contributors

I am convinced that 2010 is a year of excellence for KMBI! And with this conviction, I urge you to participate actively in developing a “culture of excellence.”

Hector H. Celajes Jefferson T. Ng Circulation For editorial, contributions, suggestions and inquiries, please contact: RM & C Division Kabalikat para sa Maunlad na Buhay, Inc. 12 San Francisco St., Karuhatan Valenzuela City 1441 Philippines Email: leagatpandan@kmbi.org.ph

ABOUT THE COVER The cover depicts one’s perseverance to get things done with pride and dignity.

In a mountain expedition, mountaineers do not just climb to get to the top; they carefully plan and prepare before they start to climb and persevere despite difficult terrains.

Their mission is to get to the summit no matter what. They are determined to reach the peak for the great reward that it brings. Learning from their example, every staff should back their aspiration for excellence with physical, mental and spiritual preparations to reach the ideals that he and the organization aspire for.

Indeed, striving for excellence is easier said than done. No doubt about it.

But in every successful endeavor, the first thing that is needed to do is to take the first step...and the next step...until it is done one step at a time. To instill a culture of excellence, we must seek to work and live a life of such quality. We can start by enhancing our relationships with the people around us. By simply having fellowship with them during meals time would spell a lot. In fact it may create a groundswell for change towards excellence.

An example of change can be having our people’s goal realigned with the goal of the organization. If we have one direction, it is easier to have efforts collected toward that direction. A change can be achieved also in having the same understanding. It is easier to act as one if we have unanimous understanding of who and what we are working for.

Leaders have greater responsibility in this case. As leaders, we are the main influencers within our group. We have to be credible and authentic in our Christian living. We also have to rally the support of our subordinates to achieve excellence in the long run. There may be critics around, but take it as a challenge. Critics can help us anticipate any objections through their insights.

In this quest, only the distinct ones have the potential to achieve excellence.

Those who are mediocre, they do not want to shift gear because they do not want to get out of their comfort zone. But the distinct ones, they have the passion and perseverance to do things with pride of excellence – they are the ones who can make a difference.

Finally, as we work towards having a culture of excellence, remember that we are doing it for the glory of our God who Himself assures that in every dealing He has with us, He does it with excellence.

Egay

Edgardo S. Mercedes Executive Director

“My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

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News Briefs Butuan branch conducts shoreline clean-up

Butuan program members clean up coastal area of Tinago bay.

Fifty program members from Butuan branch conducted a clean-up drive at the coastal strip along the bay of Tinago, Buenavista, Butuan City in January in collaboration with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO). The activity was conducted to enhance environmental awareness among its program members and contributing to the preservation of coastal areas.

Together with MENRO officers and other local volunteers, the program members went down the shoreline and picked plastic bottles, plastics bags, coconut husks and other garbage in the bay. More than 20 sacks of garbage were collected and turned over to MENRO for proper disposal.

“We really appreciate the support of KMBI in cleaning up the bay of Buenavista.

They contributed to the environmental awareness among the Butuanons, said MENRO officer George Camiling. “This is one of the programs that we are promoting to encourage people to become more responsible in protecting the environment,” he added.

Branch manager Richard Medel said they are planning to further their endeavour for cleaner environment. One of their strategies is to require program members to conduct community service such as the clean-up drive prior to loan disbursement.

Also, in the next months, they will be posting challenge for the “cleanest and greenest center house”.

relocated in the said barangay’s gymnasium. Branch staff distributed relief goods to these members to show moral support and encouragement as part of the crisis management intervention of the area.

“Upon hearing the incident, the staff and program members who were not affected by the fire, donated cash and goods. The staff then visited the relocation site to distribute the goods, prayed for the victims and had a short counselling to at least uplift their spirits,” said Caraga area manager Enrique Maca.

Senior Transformation coordinator Connie Parantar said the organization is currently developing a crisis management program to help victims of similar tragedies mitigate the impact of disaster. “This will truly be a big help to the program members who are affected by calamities.”

The program consists two phases, namely the pre-crisis phase or the preparation phase where the staff will educate program members on disaster preparedness, and the other phase is post crisis where relief operations and rehabilitation interventions are the major activities. Relief is offered through distribution of basic goods and giving moratorium or lengthening the terms of payment of victims’ loan. In the rehabilitation, the organization helps victims recover through linkaging with local government units. The development of this program began during the typhoon Ondoy tragedy in 2009, which prompted the organization establish the Hope Fund to provide relief and rehabilitation to the victims.

Negros marks Fire Prevention Month with safety drills

Fire leaves 28 PMs homeless Fire razed some 300 houses in Barangay Ong Yiu, Butuan City in March and left 28 program members among other residents homeless. Victims were temporarily

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Bacolod Bureau of Fire Protection officer demonstrates how to use the fire extinguisher.

Kabankalan and Bacolod branch staff observed the Fire Prevention Month

on March 15 and 18, respectively by intensifying their emergency preparedness and awareness through fire and earthquake drills done in coordination with the city’s bureau of fire protection.

Fire station personnel lectured on the safety measure and fire and earthquake precautions, and demonstrated how to use the fire extinguisher and to safely vacate the office building. “Doing this kind of activity prepares us in the event of calamities or disasters,” said Roselyn Embac, Visayas operation officer-in-charge.

The month of March is declared in the Philippines as Fire Prevention Month to increase the level of awareness of the public on the ways to prevent fires and save lives and properties.

Biñan, San Francisco give members a Valentine treat

Biñan branch program members and staff went home happy after the Valentine treat.

Biñan and San Francisco branch staff made Valentine’s Day memorable to the program members by rendering to them a special treat to rekindle relationships with their spouses.

Twelve couples and 30 single women were able to join Biñan’s activity which was filled with games and dancing. Also, Pastor Gualberto Espinas of Glory in His Name Christian ministries, shared reflection from in 1 Corinthians 13:4 to 7. He explained that love spells “T-I-M-E” referring to giving quality time to God, their loved ones, and their work.

In San Francisco, a Valentines card making contest for the program members was organized by the staff. Two members won the contest and was awarded a dinner date with their spouse. Many program members appreciated the said activity.

Some even admitted that after more than 20 years of marriage, it was their first time to spend a special Valentine’s treat with their spouses.

Organizational News

Organizational News

R&D starts development of agriculture and individual loan products The Research and Development (R&D) division through its Product Development department is developing new loan products, such as agricultural microfinance loan and individual loan. “KMBI is developing new loan products to increase the scale and scope of our microfinance operations through the offering of new products and services,” said Ros Matienzo, product development unit head.

The agricultural microfinance loan intends to include rice farmers while the first level individual loan will cater to growth-oriented microentrepreneurs.

The agricultural microfinance loan will be piloted in November in Koronadal City. The individual loan is scheduled for implementation by first quarter of 2011.

Executive director Edgardo Mercedes, R & D council chair Rizaldy Duque, together with Matienzo, visited in February areas in Davao del Norte and South Cotabato for field exposures. This learning activity was done in coordination with the Rural Bank of Sto. Tomas in Davao del Norte and the South

Cotabato Provincial Agriculture office.

The field visits provided the opportunity to learn best practices and understand challenges the practitioners in the field of agricultural financing and rural development are facing. It also provided a picture of agricultural sector in Mindanao, as well as players other and stakeholders.

This is in line with the plan of piloting the agricultural microfinance loan product for rice farming in Koronadal Branch.

To materialize the individual loan product, the organization is eyeing to partner with the Microfinance Innovation Center for Resources and Alternatives (MICRA), a foundation focused on development of the microfinance sector.

Through MICRA’s market research and technical assistance plan, the product development team will undergo a training on Microenterprise Access to Banking Services (MABS) approach, series of modules on capacity building. The partnership shall set motion this year.

PMs happy to receive bible in the center [ENTREP] centers. It’s a big help in our center discussions),” said Valenzuela branch program member Grace Garde.

Program assistant (PA) Aldrin Hondante of the same branch affirmed this. He said, “Hindi naman lahat ng members may bible kaya laking tulong sa amin, lalo na sa akin bilang PA (Not all of our members own a Bible. It is very helpful to us, specially to me as PA).”

Bible distribution is a project of the organization through its Transformation office. This is anchored in the ENTREP Valenzuela program members share the Bible given by the (Entrepreneurial Nurturing through organization in their weekly center meeting.

Transformation Reformation and About 5,000 or 80% of the total number of Empowerment Program) and is one of the KMBI ENTREP centers received free bibles ways to fulfill the first of the seven strategic last February which they now use in their directions under the Goal 25.250, which weekly values formation activities. is to actively share Christ and promote “Masaya kami na binigyan ang mga Christian values. sentro ng Bibles. Malaking tulong ito sa amin para sa center meeting namin (We are happy that [KMBI] gave Bibles to the

KMBI establishes 10 new branches KMBI will open ten more branches this year in Luzon and Visayas to fulfill its goal of reaching out 250,000 women microentrepreneurs on its 25th year in 2011. Through the expansion, growth of 44.11% in outreach and 112.83% increase in portfolio are projected.

New branches shall be established in Mindoro, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Bohol, Capiz, and Leyte. By end of 2010, KMBI will have 71 branches and 17 areas of operation nationwide.

Together with this expansion is the conversion of five existing branches to mega branch structure. Possible branches to be converted are Dagupan, San Carlos, Urdaneta, Mandaue, Cebu South, Bacolod, Silay, and Kabankalan. “The conversion to mega branch structure aims to establish satellite offices in areas where branch operation is not feasible. The objective is to reach more women microentrepreneurs towards poverty alleviation, and holistic transformation,” said executive director Edgardo Mercedes.

KMBI has been expanding since 2007 and takes pride in building strong relationships with its clients and partners since 1986.

CAL 2 staff join for team building activity Calabarzon 2 branch staff gathered in a two-day team building activity in February at the Couples for Christ Global Mission Foundation, Inc. Retreat House in Pabilao, Quezon to promote camaraderie and unity.

Pastor Regie Almanza of Cathedral of Faith shared a reflection on the theme, “Lead and Succeed”. He emphasized God’s calling for His followers to lead in their respective fields, and that God desired them to stay in His fold to be successful. Afterwards, the staff’s stamina and teamwork were tested and built up after overcoming series of teambuilding activities.

The activity refreshed and united the staff, and we observed that this works better when facilitated per area rather than per branch. We are planning to conduct this at least once a year, and cascade this with program members,” said Margarita Robles, Calabarzon 2 area manager.

“My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

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Organizational News

ESM declares 2010 as Year of Excellence practice the philosophy and core values of excellence towards the fulfillment of KMBI’s vision,” he said. He also reminded the staff that in order to achieve excellence, they must continually develop their skills and character, improve their leadership, and stand united.

During the GA, the organization’s 2009 performance and plan for 2010 were presented. Orientation on Executive director Edgardo Mercedes motivates Luzon officers environmental strategies, towards excellence during their general assembly at Batis Aramin, discussions on best practices of Quezon.

Negros operations, workshop on effective facilitation and presentation,and Executive director Edgardo Mercedes declared 2010 as a Year of Excellence during team building activity were conducted.

GA is an annual assembly of staff and the General Assembly (GA) of officers and officers to present accomplishments and staff in January. motivate staff for the plans and challenges In his talk, Mercedes emphasized ahead. the need to have a culture of excellence.

“Everyone ‘must’ accept, embrace and

Luzon clients get entrepreneurship Some 600 program members from 13 branches of the National Capital Region, North Luzon and South Luzon operations learned basic entrepreneurship and additional livelihood skills from the training sessions conducted by the Entrepreneurship Development department (EDD) in January. These sessions were primarily done to encourage the program members to grow their enterprises.

“It is the program members’ deeper understanding of entrepreneurship that matters the most,” EDD manager Belen Sison said. “As EDS personnel, we can only give so much but ultimately, it is our end goal to see our clients truly utilizing their loans efficiently for the business, consciously operate their enterprises more productively and competitively in the market and thus, giving them a better chance to uplift their

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economic status in life. Over and above, is our clients’ contribution to the local economy through income and employment generation that we hope to achieve,” Sison added.

The whole day training included two learning sessions. A lecture on basic entrepreneurship is given in the morning while a livelihood skills demonstration is conducted in the afternoon. Livelihood skills demonstrated were dishwashing liquid and powder detergent making, choco molding, and bead works.

Training sessions were made possible in partnership with Dream, Inc., and Nagkakaisang Mamamayan ng Palasan (Sta. Cruz Coop).

For the second quarter of the year, EDD will visit branches in Calabarzon 3, Davao, National Capital Region South, Norsoco, and Rizal areas.

209 families benefitted from micro-insurance

Relative of deceased program member of Silay branch (center) and some staff in a symbolic giving of Php 100,000 microinsurance cheque.

KMBI disbursed Php13.9M microinsurance (MI) benefits to 209 beneficiaries during the first quarter of the year. MI program protect the households from tragic losses such as death of the breadwinner of the family that might push family back into the depths of poverty from meagre amount contributed for the insurance. KMBI has been offering this benefit to program members since September 2005. This is made possible through partnerships with Cocolife and Country Bankers Insurance Group.

IPO approves KMBI logo registrations The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) Philippines approved the registration of KMBI trademarks, such as its official corporate logo and Piliin Produktong Pinoy, under trademark class 36 pertaining to financial and insurance services. This registration recognizes the source of products and services for the effective prevention of unauthorized use of the said trademarks.

“Trademark registration will lead to protection of organization’s interest. This will mean that the logos will be legally or proprietary owned by KMBI and nobody can use it without KMBI’s permission,” explained Kris Joy Dalanon, Communications department manager.

Another KMBI trademark, the ENTREP, is applied to IPO. Registration and approval process are still ongoing.

Reflection

My God is a keeper... and so I must be...

I

had a good deal reading stuff about the theme verse Deuteronomy 7:6 to 11 not because of its being a good historical piece, but mainly because the challenge of keeping His laws as part of the covenant does not end with the characters I read. It actually involves me and you today. How so? Before I would go through our part in keeping the covenant, let me bring you to some helpful truths about the verse and about our God. What does it mean when we say our God is a keeper?Let us go back to Deuteronomy 7:8. The verse says, “Know therefore that the LORD thy God he is God the faithful God which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations.” How many times was the word keep used in this verse? You can underline them if you like. What are the things that God keeps? It says there, God keeps covenant and mercy, and keep his commandments to (how many?) a thousand generations!

What thing or word that you could remember that you promised to keep for someone? How many years have you kept it? I have this circle of very close friends and back then, we promised each other we’d live together when we’d have families on our own so that we would always be together and our kids would be friends like us. We were “serious “about the vow; we even planned to acquire our own subdivision.

But guess what? Today, we’re living in different islands and countries, and the vow simply vanished like all our other childhood dreams.

But not so with God! The word keep in

By Kris Dalanon

that particular verse in Deuteronomy, when traced to its original Hebrew word shamar, means to hedge about (as with thorns), to guard, to protect, to watch, to beware. The original picture painted by this word is a sheepfold. We are not quite familiar with sheep, but say you have a chihuahua. When you’re out in some forest expedition and you bring it along, perhaps you would not just place its tie around a tree, but would keep in a cage, cover it with blanket or coat, and sleep closely by it to deter possible predators and thereby protect and guard

God has set the perfect example by showing to people, to all generations that it is possible to keep a promise. your little dog from harm. A shepherd would do the same with his sheep. When he’s out in the wilderness with his flock, he would gather thorn bushes to erect a corral to place his flock in at night to keep them from harm. The word shamar means to guard and protect and can be seen in the Aaronic blessing, “May Yahweh bless you and keep (guard and protect) you.” So when God says He keeps his covenant for a thousand generations, He’s not just keeping some promises. He is terribly serious about it.

And another interesting thing about the word shamar is that in a Hebraic perspective, it connotes that it is POSSIBLE to accomplish. Many times we’ve heard it said that no one can keep all of the

commands or promises, but not so with shamar. God has set the perfect example by showing to people, to all generations that it is possible to keep a promise. I know, many politicians do not understand shamar like you do. God has not only kept His word with ancient people in the Bible, but He’s keeping of the promise goes on and on and on…

So how about us? It’s truly amazing to know how our God lavishes His love upon us. On our end, how are we keeping or preserving His commandments? How are we guarding the heart, the mind, a nation, or a city from outside attack or ungodly influences? How are we preserving the most important relationship that we could have in our lifetime? Obey, know God, draw near to Him, keep your promise with Him unconditionally, preserve it by sharing with your loved ones and friends, and hope for eternal life. Remember, it is possible for us to keep His commandments.

Take time to read more and reflect on the theme verse. You could also check out Deuteronomy 28. This year, we are reminded that “as God is a keeper, so we must be.”

Graphic source: www.gospelgifs.com

“My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

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c

Leaders’ Edge

: e c n e l l e Exc or Out? n I u o Y e Ar

E

By Merry Rose Francisco

ven when we were much younger, we constantly admire people who excelled. They may be students who topped the academic tier, extraordinary athletes, stunning celebrities, wealthy business tycoons, etc. But have we ever thought about how they excelled or how we could excel as well?

Excellence, according to the American Dictionary, is a state or condition of excelling or superiority. There’s no fancy good luck charm to excel. Excellence is culture; it’s like a habit. We form it and then later, it forms us. It starts with doing ordinary and routine tasks, not necessarily a major project, but is done at the highest standard despite of barriers in the workplace.

Excellence is different from perfectionism. Perfectionism is aiming for somewhat impossible goals and often hurts the perfectionist when the goal is not achieved. A person that pursues excellence takes satisfaction in achieving high standard without feeling inadequate when the desired outcome is not met.

In Matthew 25: 14 to 30, we are admonished to nurture and do our very best to keep the talents that God had given to us in accordance to our faithfulness. Our faithfulness in small things will lead to greater trust, greater responsibilities and therefore, greater

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breakthroughs. Our individual contributions lead to the organization’s excellence.

How can we then corporately build such a culture? We can start with these three stages.

Meeting “Me.” We sought work because of the financial gain that comes with it. That is normal and is the “me” stage of the culture of excellence. Everyone started here. However, this should not be the status quo. Self-development and continuous learning are important part of excellence. The desire to improve must come from within us. We have to develop a passion in pursuing excellence and this means getting out of the comfort zone, that is doing things that we are not familiar with. This may be difficult for the moment.

However, these challenges can open doors of opportunities to grow and strengthen our character and skills. Change is an expected part of everyone’s life; the same thing that standing still is not an option to have a fulfilling journey. This will cause us to move, understand situations, develop mindset, and embrace the culture. Once we embrace it we will be more than willing to work harmoniously with one another.

So let’s move from “me” to “we”!

The “We” Power. It’s time to move and discover the best within us, as a corporate body. What strengths and opportunities

should we maximize, and what risks and threats should we solve together? We will work together aligned to the needs of the organization. We should have the same picture of excellence in our vision board. It doesn’t matter how big it may seem, but it should be a vision we should be working for together.

Joining “Us”. The “us” stage is the highest stage of culture of excellence. This is the stage where we can stand tall and speak up as one organization. We are already motivated in one mission, and people are equipped and engaged in working for one vision. Our own standard of excellence is designed to achieve one goal. This is to ensure that we and our clients are totally into the business of transformation.

Moving up the stages can be developed over time. Response or growth may vary from one person to another. We cannot easily change the mindset but the most that we can do is to influence. We can empower each other to develop the correct mindset or understand the organization’s vision, mission, core values, and goal. From there, we can change from “me” to “we” to “us.”

This kind of attitude requires consistency in everything that we do.

The quest for excellence can fuel the fire of passion and drive us to do our best.

This can keep us from drifting down the stream but takes us to a higher level of accolade, not for our own glory but for the glory of God. This year, the challenge to excel is thrown before us. Are you in or out?

Leaders’ Edge

Discover the

Strength from

Within

By Mary Grace Burgos

W

hile watching a CNN broadcast of an interview with the president of Chile on February 27 after an 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck her country, I could not help but admire her show of courage and balance as she spoke to her countrymen. She urged them to remain calm and told them that all means were being taken to assist them in every way her government can. I could not help but ask myself, how can she manage to remain convincingly reassuring and collected in the face of calamity that threatens to reveal the horror of its impact as the day unfolds?

To be a leader is indeed a tough call. There are countless circumstances that challenge one’s ability to control every possible emotion since a leader’s response is always expected to be seen in the light of its impact on those whose eyes are upon him. A leader cannot afford to show weakness in character especially in situations where a strong disposition is called for, where a display of compassion and sympathy is permissible in events where lives and resources are wasted and lost. A compelling spirit towards rebuilding and recovery or an optimistic foresight in the face of a grim reality is a sign of leadership that should shine more. But what does it take for such a character to stand out? How does one keep his strength, courage and positive disposition even in the most chaotic events of life? Surely, it is not something that can be faked for anything that is not authentic usually comes to surface in trying circumstances.

In my quest to find the answer, I tried to recall people whom I have crossed paths with in the past, in history and in my own social circle who have become to me a leader, one way or the other. I came to realize that these leaders remain to be hopeful when all signs of help have ran out because of a belief for a higher being that remains in control of the affairs of this planet.

A mother who has constantly and unceasingly prayed to God for a wayward child’s restoration remains in calm anticipation that her heart’s desire will come to pass because she has a God with whom nothing is impossible. It is something that she displays to the rest of the members of her own family as her means of keeping their hope alive as well.

In the face of suffering, I have seen men and women in hospital confinement who would naturally exemplify courage and optimism around similar individuals with affliction to show to them that there is no reason to feel helpless as there is God who listens to their cries, shares their suffering and is capable of taking anyone’s pain away, if only He would be asked.

In history, expeditions to conquer nations or discover new lands were launched not only on the basis of the sufficiency of a nation’s resources or military strength but also on the strength of a leader’s faith to whom he believes.

In the Bible, every leader from the time of the patriarchs to the time of the apostles, boldness in leadership stemmed from only one thing - they kept a personal relationship

with God and they knew that as they honored God with their lives, God will honor His promises to them.

This, I have then come to realize, a leader who genuinely believes in God and recognizes His sovereignty over all things will remain undaunted by any form of threat to its preservation and will continue to be a compelling influence for many from generation to generation.

Tips to develop strength from within • Do not give up. As a leader, always remember that God always come through. In trying times, pray, take your challenge to God and be persistent about it. Don’t give up, don’t give in and keep pressing ahead.

Everyone gets discourage, it's normal but we have to know how to overcome discouragement in trying times for the sake of those who look up to us.

• Be proactive. Leaders need to be proactive in what they are doing and take initiative to inspect and assess things and situations.

• Remember who’s in your team.

Remember there is nothing in this world that you and God can’t handle. Knowing God is with you will help you to become more courageous. Trust Him. God doesn’t want you to fight alone.

“My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

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Leaders’ Edge

l Find Rea Joy at Work an

n Layaw

Ke

By Charis

H

ave you ever felt tired of working?

If you were to rate your fulfillment and joy in your work, one as lowest and ten as highest, how would you fare?

Many of us feel exhilarated when we get the work we applied for, but when we’re doing the actual work, we get tired and unmotivated in time. According to the bible study material on “Joy at Work” by Dennis Bakke, God intends work to be about joy.

Many people may not be aware of that.

In fact, others think that work is actually a punishment as a result of disobedience of Adam and Eve to God and that people have to work in order to live.

We need to understand that work is not a punishment. God created humans to take good care of His creations. Even before the fall, humans were directed to simply

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govern. God’s intention is for us to enjoy and be fulfilled in doing this task. Even with the fall, His intention is the same. When Adam and Eve had to leave the Garden of Eden as a consequence of their disobedience, God still guided them even when their relationship with Him was broken. The broken relationship has led to our difficulty in rendering our gifts and abilities properly and in finding joy at work.

The good news is God sent Jesus Christ to restore that separation from Him. The acceptance of our shortcomings and our acknowledgement of Him as Ruler and King of our lives will lead to our redemption.

With this restoration comes an unexplainable joy. When we relate this to work, we would have a different perspective of doing things. We would now see that we are working for the Lord, and that everything we do, whether big or small, is for His glory. In Colossians 3:1 to 3 Paul said, “Set your heart on what is in heaven… think about what is up there, not about what is here on earth.” You may be thinking how we can hold secular jobs but focus on heavenly things. Some said our work is actually a form of worship to God. When we realize that Jesus Christ is Lord over all of life, then He must be Lord over work, too. The question now is how can we maintain that joy at work? Below are three practical tips.

Have a daily quite time. The main point of a having a quiet time is to

connect with God through prayer, reading and meditation of His Word. Some say the Bible is God’s love letter to us. It teaches us what is right, how to make things right and to maintain what is right so that we “may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16). Using a devotional material can be great help. “Our Daily Bread” is an example. Connection with God is the foundation to have that joy in our hearts and in effect, to have joy at work.

When you have God’s perspective, we will be able to steer clear of the negatives and render our best to glorify Him. Commit your work to God. Every day, when you arrive at work, pray and commit to God your work. Ask God to bless the works of your hands. If you feel you lack wisdom, then ask from God. By the end of the day, you will know that God has blessed your work and you have served as a blessing to others.

Remember that your job is a blessing from God. Be joyful with your work – that’s God’s blessing. This alone can already be a source of joy in your heart. Do your job for God’s glory and you will see how privileged you are that you are working for God and not for men. With this new mindset you will be more excited to work because you are doing it for God. You will be wearing a beautiful smile as a manifestation of that joy at your work and inspire others.

Work is inherently and essentially good.

That’s why it is important to honor Him by doing the work entrusted to us. Real joy in work begins and ends in God.

MF Index

To Offset or Not to Offset

By Rhany Barrera

I

n my elementary days, one of the rural banks in our place facilitated a savings program in our school. They encouraged students to save money in the bank. Every week, a representative from the bank would visit our school to collect our savings. Each student depositor was given an individual bankbook like a usual bank depositor. The only difference with common banking was that we were not required to go to the bank and do our transactions on our own.

During those days, I did not understand the principle of savings and yet I could still remember the joy of looking at my passbook. Seeing an increasing amount of money every time I save from my daily allowance coming from my parents made me totally happy.

From that experience, I would agree that it is important to encourage and require our program members to save money through our Capital Build Up (CBU) facility in order for them to build future capital

starting from a small amount of money.

KMBI, as a microfinance institution, is trying to help our economy by bringing back accumulated amount to the circulation.

The objective of CBU is to bring the bank in the doorsteps of our program members and eventually for them to be independent in growing their businesses.

The purpose of the program will not be realized if we will not do our part in shaping the right mindset regarding savings. We are tasked to ensure that program members must understand the following: • One of the reasons they joined KMBI is because of the opportunity to save for future capital and to grow their businesses and not only because of the loan we are providing.

• CBU is an opportunity for program members to create funds and become independent on outside credit sources and not just a requirement to join.

• KMBI is serious about NO OFFSETTING policy.

The absence of center weekly meeting or poor attendance of members is one of the most common factors that affect the proper implementation of this service. Without proper understanding, they will demand to offset their CBU to pay their loans probably because they learned that other MFIs allow offsetting. They will tend to ignore the policy and the importance of CBU. This problem will continue unless we instill the right values and mindset in them.

But why do we choose to stand by the principles of no offsetting policy if other organizations are doing it? Does it not bring good for the organization and clients alike?

The answer is simply because our program is about helping people help themselves. How can we help them be alleviated from poverty if they are swamped by debts? If their CBU will accumulate, this will mean that they can have a business capital in the future that is not loaned. They can freely grow the money without thinking about repayments and interests. We dream that our clients will be self-sustainable in the future. We want to teach them a discipline of saving, a character that every successful person must have. We do not like our clients to rely on loans forever; we want them to stay in our program until such time that we see the impact of our interventions in their lives.

We, as an organization, believes that discipline is important to facilitate transformation. We shall first instill discipline in our program members before holistic transformation can happen.

Discipline for our clients can come from two levels - it could be organizational discipline or self-discipline. Commonly at the beginning of our program, members lack To Offset/p.12

“My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

| 11

ENTREP 101

To offset...from p.11

How to Build the Foundations of a Wealthy Life

self-discipline. That is why organizational discipline must be implemented strongly.

Our dream for our program members will be realized if the program is properly implemented. Each of us is doing noble work everytime we help and teach people to save for their future. If we are serious about being an agent of transformation, we must also be serious and willing to help our program members understand the objective of CBU. Protecting their hard-earned money is an expression that we value them as our program members.

By John Russell Barbosa

Tips to excite program members to be faithful in giving their CBU • Recognize program members who have the highest savings in the center. This would give extra pride to those people who have stayed in the program for some time and have faithfully contributed for their CBU. • Document program members’ resignation especially those who have the highest CBU amount.

Take pictures during release of CBU and post it at the center bulletin board to challenge other program members to surpass the amount raised by the resigned member.

• Keep individual passbooks updated. Encourage program members to safekeep their own passbooks and check it every week to monitor their CBU.

12 | Communi-K • vol. 7 no.1

W

ealth to some may mean lots of money, huge properties, a fleet of cars, and varied businesses.

However, the bottomline of wealth is simply cash flow. The balance of what remains with your income after you have deducted all of your expenses is what you call net worth.

This is the foundation of wealth.

Wealth is a bigger concept than savings since it is not only something that you accumulate but something you can protect and eventually transfer. When you talk about wealth, you simply mean the totality of the valuable things you possess, and that covers investments, savings, assets, properties and businesses.

Some people confuse wealth with the amount of income they gain in a month, with the titles or positions they occupy. For example, a man who earns Php100,000 per month is not necessarily richer than one who is earning Php10,000 monthly. If the first one earns Php100,000 a month but his total expenses is Php130,000, and the latter is able to save Php1,000 per month on his income, in the next five or ten years the

person who earns Php10,000 is definitely richer than the other one. In such manner, you cannot automatically assume your wealth is based on your income.

We’ll discuss the cycle of wealth to give you a better idea of how you will start building the foundations of a wealthy life.

Wealth follows three basic steps. This is through accumulation, preservation, and transference. These basic steps would allow you to properly plan, use and realize your life goals.

Step 1: Accumulate wealth. The bottomline is to achieve a surplus of your income after deducting your overall expenses. Everything starts by simple accumulation. To do this, you need to answer the basic question on why you need to accumulate surplus in the first place. The answer lies on your needs, both present and future ones.

Start with your basic daily needs like food, electricity, utilities, housing, clothing, and education. Then compare that with your income. Any resulting surplus (if any) will form part of the wealth that you will

ENTREP 101 Anything that is left from their expenses accumulate. You can either place that in Savings equals Expenses”. This is the NOTconstitutes their savings. This is where they savings or invest your money so it will grow SO-SECRET-SECRET-OF-SUCCESS. Observe fail. You need to change this formula to more. The key here is developing the habit wealthy business men still using basic “Income – (Tithes + Savings) = Expenses”. of budgeting. This is the first skill you need mobile phones for their transactions. If it You need to exclude tithes and savings from to have if you are serious in building your is able to send and receive text messages the onset, then you adjust your expenses wealth. Only through proper budgeting will and can be used to call others, then that is with what remains. Take out the 10% of you be able to plan your expenses against enough. The smart and expensive phones your total income as part of your tithes to your income and proactively gain surplus. that you see them using are merely free the Lord and give it to your church to help Budgeting is not rocket science. It handsets issued by telephone companies build the Lord’s work. God has promised to simply means that you record all of your as part of their retainer plans. It is more of return this a thousand fold, so take this as a basic needs (and expenses), deduct your keeping up with their image, but they don’t good investment. Then, take out another available income, and work within the shell out money for these.

10% as savings. The remaining 80% should identified needs. For example, every Now for the non-rich, especially for cover all of your expenses. Everyone can morning you buy bread, coffee and egg preppies, you see them using expensive make adjustments if you are properly for breakfast. You need to compute these phones normally through credit in their motivated. There was a time when you can expenses, along with your child’s baon effort to “keep up with the Joneses”. live with your Php5,000 monthly income. and transportation. You need to outline They have this idea that since they have When it’s Php10,000, you can adjust your everything that you normally spend on a some money stored up and a new gadget daily basis. Then determine which becomes fashionable, it is of these constitute your basic daily expected of them to buy this needs and which ones are secondary using their savings or even using and compare your income with your credit cards. Not so with the real savings. You can now determine if rich. They look at their current ACCUMULATION you are overspending or if you have income and say, “Well, this is the surplus. only amount of money which I Just like a lot of things, writing can spend at this point”. As long your budget takes effort on the as its functional and meets their onset. So for the next 30 days while needs, what they have is ok. The using a “tickler pad”, a notebook money saved is again plowed back or a budget calculator, identify and to investments to create more write all of your expenses every day. income. Occasionally they treat Even expenses for candies, snacks, themselves with expensive things, gasoline, and tricycle fare! When you TRANSFERENCE PRESERVATION but this is after knowing that they have finished one month and summed had generated enough income to it up, you would have a clear idea of cover the expenses. your monthly expenses. The beauty So what is applicable for of this process is that it allows you the rich also applies for us. I to categorize your expenses. How would suggest that you get much should be allotted for food, education, expenses. The key lies with the discipline a pen and a calculator and fill-up the of keeping within your budget! Wealth communication, utilities, internet? This budget calculator. Ideally do this with your accumulation is not determined with the is crucial since now you can identify what family members so wealth accumulation amount of your salary. It’s how you budget areas you need to control. If you had not becomes a family endeavor. Agree on your and how you faithfully follow your budget done your budget, you won’t have a basis appropriate lifestyle and encourage each that creates the surplus. for identifying if you need to add or reduce other as you implement your new budget.

Wealthy individuals know that having on certain expenses.

Any amount saved now is important and money is not synonymous to being rich.

This is a basic problem among Filipinos. would contribute to your journey towards a Money is only important in the sense that it We tend to feel that we earn too little wealthy life. allows you to meet your basic needs. Your since nothing remains after deducting our In the next issue, we will discuss the expenses. But why are we left with nothing? usage of money determines what class of second step to build foundation of a wealthy society you are in, whether you are class Perhaps it is because we are not able to see life, i.e. preservation.

A, B, C and D. And the curious thing is that the extent of our spending pattern. Again, the process of becoming wealthy is to create the class A sector, besides comprising the John Russell Barbosa is the 2009 Nationwide Sales Excellence Awardee, Philamlife, Top 7 Nationwide, smallest group (10% of total population) a surplus, without which you won’t have OFW Specialist Philamlife 2009, Top 1 Agent, Espiritu with the biggest chunk of the nation’s savings or investment to begin with.

Associates, Philamlife 2009, and 2007 International wealth (80% of total national wealth), For most people, this is how they treat Registered Financial Consultant their money: “Income – Expenses = Savings”. follows the simple formula of “Income less “My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

| 13

Feature Story

In the Face of Different Cultures

A special interview with Roselyn Embac, officer-in-charge of Visayas operation

By Lea Gatpandan

I

n 2004, Roselyn Embac began her journey with KMBI as a program assistant in General Santos branch. With her dedication and strength as a leader, she was promoted to various leadership posts and has been relocated to different parts of the country. Currently, she is the officer-in-charge of Visayas operations. The tests of culture arise upon transferring from Mindanao to Luzon to Visayas operation.

Roselyn faced different cultures, different attitudes, different problems, but Roselyn resolved it with the same solution – by being a servant leader.

CK: Can you give us a glimpse of your personal life and what your growing up years were like?

RAE: I am an athlete since elementary. I love team sports. It helps me instil discipline and teamwork. I was also an active girl scout and was recognized as a good leader.

I was my lola’s (grandmother) favourite granddaughter so she took me to stay with her though my parents were still alive. My lola is an albularyo (faith healer). I was tagged along when she “worked”. I was the one who memorized prayers for her patients. We even went to a wake to pray for the dead. She shared to me whatever she earned. I saved every single centavo to buy a volley ball. But when I got to know Jesus Christ, my life changed. And the way I do things also changed.

I have always wanted to become an army officer. I was a battallion officer in high school. But, my mother didn’t allow me to join the Philippine Military Academy in college because of the risk.

14 | Communi-K • vol. 7 no.1

CK: How do you view your work in KMBI? RAE: I view my work in KMBI as my personal ministry for the Lord.

CK: What do you love most about the work in KMBI? RAE: Soul winning and leading people to Christ as He commanded us in Matthew 28:18 to 20.

CK: What is number one in your list in handling a new branch or area?

RAE: My priority is to share Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior so that I could establish a godly culture and produce godly leaders. I believe excellent outputs will just follow if we put God first.

CK: You spend much time with staff and program members. What motivates you to stay involved with the details of the operation?

RAE: My principle is servant leadership, just like Christ did not come to be served

but to serve. So, whenever I am given the opportunity to lead, I do it through discipleship which means investing in the life of a person in terms of time, money, and effort. I treat my staff and clients as souls God has entrusted to me to minister and nurture for Him. CK: The operations can be very stressful.

How do you manage stress?

RAE: By spending quality time with the Lord through reading the bible and praying, fellowshipping with other believers, travelling to new places, watching wholesome movies, food tripping and getting a foot spa!

CK: What helps you move on after failure or discouraging situations?

RAE: Look at the big picture – our vision. I believe that KMBI’s vision comes from God through our trustees. So, in difficult times, I go back to God, the source of our vision, to refresh my strength and hope through

Feature Story

meditating His Word and prayer. I hold on to Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

CK: Who are the leaders you admire?

RAE: Jesus Christ and Dawson Trotman, the founder of Navigators. In this organization, I admire the leaders who have influenced me one way or the other. I admire the members of the board of trustees, especially Dr. Amelia Gonzales, for her commitment and dedication to the vision of KMBI since it was founded; Executive director Egay Mercedes, for his brilliant ideas, wisdom, and people-oriented type of leadership; National Capital Region (NCR) South area manager Nemwell Arzaga, who is my Barnabas, for he encouraged me to stay in KMBI during the time that I attempted to resign. He told me we are catching fish in the ocean and not in the aquarium that’s why our work is difficult. That got me thinking; NCR operations manager Reynald Alpajando, for he confronted me with my mistakes as a leader and challenged me to change myself first and the way I lead before I could hit the target; and operations director Carmela Porras, for she gives her full trust and support to me. For this, I could freely work and explore my potentials by not being judged and hindered. I’ve learned to work without fear but with a sense of

responsibility and accountability towards my superior.

CK: With all the demands at work, how are you able to balance this with your love life?

RAE: Ecclesiastes 3:1 says there is a season for everything and a time for every matter under heaven. With all the demands at work, I balance it with having quality time with my boyfriend.

CK: What’s next to conquer for Roselyn?

RAE: Next to conquer? Maybe the challenges that I am facing here in Visayas operations. First is the rehabilitation of Cebu area in reaching the standard performance.

Second is the maintenance of Negros operations. I know that it takes character to do this and character building is a long term process. Third is the target client outreach of expansion branches in the island of Leyte, Bohol and Panay.

CK: What advice can you give to someone who would like to excel in work?

RAE: Matthew 6:33 and Deuteronomy 28 – Put God first and obey God and your leaders as God delegated them the authority. Make your heart right with the Lord and with the people. Vertical relationship (with the Lord) and horizontal relationship (subordinates, superior, clients, co-workers, family, friends

and others) must always be right at all times.

On Roselyn, as a leader She is my spiritual mentor aside from being my superior. She showed a different kind of leadership. She always reminded me to prioritize relationship (unity) when dealing with issues at work. Talac branch manager Lanie Cardeño.

She is tough, has a strong dedication to work, sticks to implementation of policies, and focuses on the mission and vision of the organization. Biñan program unit supervisor Michael Celadena.

She motivates, and encourages us to be part of the decision making and to grow professionally and be promoted someday. Kabankalan branch manager Joel Cardeño.

Good leadership produces quality performance. Roselyn shows no fancy techniques or no top-secret approach at all but her leadership truly produces new breed of leaders. Her secret is Christ and her relationship and support to her staff.

“My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

| 15

Tips

What to Do Before Disaster Strikes

By Charis Ken Layawan

D

on’t you know that our country is hit by an average of twenty typhoons every year? Last year was one of the worst. Series of natural disasters affected millions of Filipinos. And today, weather is getting unpredictable. We need to prepare for these natural disasters since our country is tropical and vulnerable to these.

Without preparation, the more terrible consequences can happen. Below are suggestions on how we can prepare before these common disasters would hit us.

• Move as much furniture and appliances as possible and other valuables to a higher floor.

• Form a family emergency/evacuation plan. Make sure everyone knows where to go in the event of a flood warning.

This may be houses of family or friends or other safe public buildings on higher ground.

• Or better yet, if you live in a flood-prone area, try to move to a higher area if it’s possible.

General preparations • Be informed. Keep eye on the news for weather updates or disaster warnings.

• Be ready. Keep an emergency supplies kit.

It has a three-day supply of bottled water and non-perishable food, can opener, plates, cups, utensils, battery-powered radio, flashlight, lighter, and batteries.

Also have a first-aid kit. It has alcohol, band aid, cotton, betadine, N-95 masks, and medicine.

To prepare for tremors or earthquakes • Place large, heavy objects on lower shelves or on the floor. They might fall.

You can also screw them onto things, such as on desks.

• Heavy pictures and mirrors should be hung away from beds, couches, and anywhere that someone might sit. Place breakable items (bottles, glass, china, etc.) in closed cabinets that have latches.

• Overhead light fixtures should be braced to prevent falling.

• Evaluate your electrical wiring and gas connections and repair if needed.

During an earthquake, these can become potential fire hazards.

• Seek to educate yourself and those in your family about the best place to go during an earthquake and what they can do if you are incapacitated. Someone besides yourself should be able to shut off the gas, water, and electricity.

To prepare for flood • Keep important documents like photos, certificates, insurance policies and the like in a water-proof box and place it where it can be easily found.

• Start a proper waste system and influence your neighbors to do the same or clean the pipes and tunnels this summer. Most floods are caused by wrong garbage disposal.

16 | Communi-K • vol. 7 no.1

To prevent fire: • Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach.

• Keep fire extinguisher or a pail of water handy at home.

• Do not leave the cooking stove unattended while cooking.

• Replace old, cracked gas hoses with new ones as soon as possible.

• Do not connect too many electrical appliances to one outlet.

• Do not use a broken plug or pull a plug out of an outlet by the cord as this may cause overheating and possibly, even a fire.

For more information on natural disaster preparedness, visit the following websites below.

References: http://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/images/PHIVOLCS_Fliers/ eq%20what%20to%20do.pdf, http://www.rbapmabs.org/ blog/2009/10/disaster-preparedness-recovery-planning-tips/, http://tcdc.undp.org/SIE/experiences/vol6/disaster.pdf, http:// www.mahalo.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-natural-disaster, http://www.allstate.com/catastrophe/earthquake.asp, http:// www.ehow.com/how_5054243_prepare-volcanic-eruptions. html, http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/volcanoes/before. asp, http://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-a-House-Fire, http:// newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/metro/view/20091231244869/DILG-More-than-6000-fire-incidents-reported-in-2009 http://www.bfpresponse.gov.ph/fcorner.html

Health Tips

Iwas Heat Stroke Ngayong Tag-init

A

lam mo ba na ang heat stroke ay pwedeng ikamatay ng tao? Ito ay isang sakit na sanhi ng matinding init ng panahon. Maaari tayong magka-heat stroke kapag sobra ang pagkabilad natin sa araw o hindi na nagagawa ng ating katawan na pagpawisan ng tama upang bumaba ang temperatura nito. Ang ating katawan ay naglalabas ng pawis upang mapababa o mapalamig ang temperatura nito ngunit kung tayo ay dehydrated o wala ng mailabas na pawis, magpapatuloy ang pagtaas ng ating temperatura na nagsasanhi ng heat stroke. Ang sintomas ng nito ay ang pananakit ng ulo, pagkahilo, pagkalito, mainit at panunuyo ng balat at hindi pinagpapawisan, pagtaas ng temperatura ng katawan, pagkahimatay, mabilis na pagtibok ng puso, at hallucination.

Paano maiiwasan ang heat stroke?

• Uminom ng maraming tubig. Iwasan ang tsaa, kape, soda, at alak dahil ito ay maaaring makapagdehydrate ng inyong katawan.

• Magsuot ng komportable at malamig sa katawan na damit.

• Isagawa ang mga mabibigat na gawain at sports sa mas malamig na oras ng araw.

• Huwag magbilad sa sikat ng araw.

Gumamit ng paying,sombrero, o sunglasses.

• Mas mainam na mamalagi sa loob ng bahay o opisina . Kung hindi maiiwasan ang paglabas ng bahay o opisina, untiunting sanayin ang katawan sa init ng panahon sa pamamagitan ng madalas na paglabas.

• Habang nasa labas, palagiang uminom ng tubig. Dampian ng tubig ang balat upang maiwasan ang labis na pag-init ng katawan.

Mahalagang malunasan kaagad ang taong tinamaan ng heat stroke upang hindi ito mauwi sa mas delikadong kalagayan o kamatayan. Narito ang ilan sa mga pwedeng gawin: • Kaagad na isilong ang taong may heat stroke.

• Tanggalin ang damit at dahan-dahang pahiran ang balat ng tubig at pahanginan ito.

• Lagyan ng ice packs sa singit at kilikili.

• Pahigain ang pasyente sa malamig na lugar na nakataas ng kaunti ang mga paa.

• Pagpahingahin ang pasyente.

Kung ikaw ay naninirahan sa sobrang init na lugar at may malalang karamdaman, kumonsulta sa doktor upang mabigyan ka ng dagdag na proteksyon at makaiwas sa heat stroke.

Source: University of Maryland Medical Center

Home-made Fruit Facial Mask Steps: Gently heat the gelatine with the fruit or vegetable juice until the gelatine is dissolved completely. Let cool until it is almost set.

Apply the mixture on your face and let dry completely. Peel off!

Note: Use citrus fruits like orange, lemon, grapefruit or lime juice for oily skin and use apple, pear, melon, papaya, banana, or avocado for dry skin.

Your kitchen shelf has been secretly storing all these beauty secrets for years. It is up to you to discover more.

Ingredients: 1 packet Unflavoured Gelatine 1/2 cup Fresh Fruit or Vegetable Juice

Reference: http://beautiesbeautytips.blogspot.com Graphic source: http://www.squidoo.com/simplehomemade-facial-mask-recipes

Men and Women’s Beauty Secrets from the Kitchen

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atermelon juice clears the skin of all its blemishes leaving it fresh and lovely. Grate a watermelon, squeeze out the juice and apply it on your face for 15 minutes. Now wash it with hot water and then splash on cold water.

Orange juice is great for an instant glow.

All you need to do is dip your fingers in the juice and pat your cheeks, chin, neck and forehead. Wash off after ten minutes.

Carrot is viewed as “skin food”! As the name suggest, carrot could moisture our skin. While some likes to eat it raw, carrot is an excellent source of Vitamin A and potassium. It also contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, thiamine, folic acid, and magnesium.

Lemon can naturally whiten your teeth by rubbing half a lemon with table salt and a pinch of baking soda on the teeth or brush your teeth with a mixture of lemon juice, salt and baking soda.

Banana can maintain the skin’s natural glow.

Banana is also wonderful as an anti-wrinkle treatment. Mash 1/4 of a banana until very creamy. Spread all over your face and leave for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water followed by a dash of cold water. Then gently pat dry.

References: http://beautiesbeautytips.blogspot.com http://nutridb.com/beauty/fruits-and-vegetables-for-dailybeauty-care-and-optimum-health/ http://www.skincareblog.org http://www.beautyden.com/bananafacialcream.shtml http://www.ehow.com/how_5058113_use-skin-care-beautytreatment.html

“My God is a keeper...and so I must be...” (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

| 17

Eco Tips

Stop the Drop: Be Water Smart

By Annabelle Plantilla, executive director of Haribon Foundation

Get Green and Be Happy

I

W

hope the effects of El Niño have made us realize that without water, there is no life.

We should examine our water utilization practices and determine how we can conserve this precious liquid. A quick search in Wikipedia reveals that water conservation can be defined as any beneficial deduction in water loss, use, or waste. It can also be a reduction in water use accomplished by implementation of water conservation or water efficiency measures; or, improved water management practices that reduce or enhance the beneficial use of water. A water conservation measure is an action, behavioral change, device, technology, or improved design or process implemented to reduce water loss, waste, or use.

Why conserve water? Because it means sustainability or its availability for future generations.

The withdrawal of fresh water from an ecosystem should not exceed its natural replacement rate. A healthy forest ecosystem ensures a steady supply of water. No forests, no water, no food. Minimizing human water use also helps to preserve fresh water habitats for local wildlife and migrating waterfowl, as well as reducing the need to build new dams and other water diversion infrastructure.

The most practical ways to conserve water are many and very simple. I remember when I was growing up, we used to have large drums that were usually brought out to the azotea during the rainy season ready to catch the millions of raindrops that we use for watering plants and cleaning. We still do this today. It’s called rain harvesting. It’s practical and reduces the water bill. I am not a fan of bathtubs as I find them too wasteful. A reasonable time under the shower or the ever-present “balde at tabo” are sufficient. Children (and adults)

18 | Communi-K • vol. 7 no.1

should be taught to close faucets tightly. On the other hand, leaking faucets are a no-no.

Just imagining that every drop of water is equivalent to a peso being thrown away is enough motivation to have those leaks fixed.

At the same time, report water leaks that you see in your neighborhood.

Water conservation means changing personal behaviors such as not running the faucet while brushing teeth, shaving and when washing dishes. The washing machine should only be used on a full load. Fruits and vegetables should be washed in a pan of water instead of running water from the tap. The water can also be re-used to water plants.

Likewise, when cleaning out fish tanks, give the nutrient-rich water to your plants. Don't use running water to thaw food. Defrost food in the refrigerator for water efficiency and food safety. Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalk and save water every time.

Water can also be conserved by landscaping with native plants because they are efficient users of water. Watering plants are best in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation. However, water only when necessary. More plants die from overwatering than from under-watering. Spreading a layer of organic mulch around plants retains moisture and saves water, time and money.

Because we love talking with our neighbors and friends, share water conservation tips with them. Be advocates and encourage local organizations or even local government units to implement water conservation measures. Water conservation seems easy but the challenge is our ability to convert these tips into daily habits that if millions of us are able to do will translate to more savings and water for more people to use.

Graphics Source: www.jointheevolution.ca, http:// earthfriendlyfundraisers.com/tag/eco-friendly-fundraising

hat ecofriendly things can we do to help the environment? More than you might think, actually. The typical lifestyle can lead to quite a bit of waste, especially paper, so small steps to conserve and recycle can really add up! Here are some environmentally friendly tips for a greener life.

Recycle everything, especially paper!

Think about how many pieces of paper you go through in a quarter. There’s your memo notes, your scrap copies, your daily office newspapers, and assorted stuff that you’ve printed out from the internet... it all adds up.

Look for a paper recycle bin you might find one near a office building or home. And recycle other items as well, including cans, bottles, and cardboard boxes.

Use your printer wisely. You can save paper by printing on both sides of the page.

Your boss don’t mind if you turn in a paper like this-- just ask first. Save pages that you’ve printed and use the backs to print out drafts and other things you don’t have to turn in. In addition, many printers have multiple settings for print quality. Use the high quality print setting for things that have to look nice, but use the low quality setting for things that don’t. This will save ink. While you’re at, consider cutting down on the things your print out. Do you really need to print out that web page or can you just bookmark it?

Limit the use of paper napkins. Since we eat a good deal of fast food, napkin use can add up. It’s good that you want to be clean, but one napkin will probably do the trick!

Use compact fluorescent light bulbs.

These bulbs cost more, but they last longer and ultimately save your money. If you’re renting a room, get yourself a lamp and screw in one of these bulbs. Lamp light is much more pleasant and environmentally efficient than overhead lighting.

Buy green. Buy recycled products whenever you can, especially paper. Buy environmentally safe cleaning products as well. Some of these products cost more-- but many don’t or the price difference is negligible.

Read more at Suite101: Green Tips for College Students: 10 Environmentally Friendly Ideas for Dorm Rooms and Campus Life http://collegeuniversity.suite101.com/article.cfm/ green_tips_for_college_students#ixzz0iVrARdaQ source: http://collegeuniversity.suite101.com/article.cfm/ green_tips_for_college_students http://earthfriendlyfundraisers.com/wp-content/ uploads/2008/10/globewithleaf.jpg

Project Update

EISTOP: Five branches to go live in 2010 EISTOP or Enhanced Information System Towards Optimum Productivity aims to bring more relevant information system to enhance effectiveness and efficiency in daily transactions at the head office and the branch offices. It will be initially implemented in five branches, namely Valenzuela, Camarin, one from North Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Completion of the project is expected by September this year.

The project is consist of five major stages, namely, program management, strategic information technology roadmap for growth, Mifos implementation, accounting integration, and live deployment.

The first two stages were completed in February. For the gap analysis, the Grameen Foundation USA (GFUSA) team

conducted center and branch visits and interview from different departments. Also, the EISTOP task force members attended a business process mapping to design models utilizing a common system, identify changes to current processes, and identify other processes that will be affected by EISTOP. Current processes that had been mapped were client selection, loan processing and approval with orientation session, loan disbursement, utilization, collection, Capital Build Up management, micro insurance enrollment and claims, offsetting, writtenoff, moratorium, and loan collection (pastdue collection).

EISTOP is a web-based, automated information system that will virtually converge all offices in real-time situation.

This speeds up reporting and recording of transactions, harnesses information dissemination, and prevents client multimembership, augment control system and enable on-line monitoring with its credit bureau or list of all KMBI program members.

GFUSA is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Washington, DC. It was founded in 1997 by friends of Grameen Bank to help microfinance practitioners and spread the Grameen philosophy worldwide.

GFUSA has developed MIFOS, an open source microfinance management system designed to enable microfinance institutions to grow more efficiently and to improve the quality of their product offering.

CBEDP to launch one Community Livelihood Enterprise in Naga

(Left photo) Left to Right: Victor Palce, Naga branch manager ; Calvin Perez, Community Development unit head; and Editha Banda, councilperson of Brgy. Carolina, Naga city discussing the socio-economic profile of the barangay and other potential livelihood programs. (Right photo) Land use for corn and rice production.

As part of the continuous efforts of KMBI in delivering non-financial and demand-driven services, the Community-Based Enterprise Development Program (CBEDP) will expand from South Cotabato to Bicol area. A new approach called One Community Livelihood Enterprise will be launched in Carolina, Naga City, Camarines Sur on June 2010.

The project is foreseen to contribute to the development of the general welfare of the community by grooming the residents to become microentrepreneurs and eventually integrated to the mainstream operation of KMBI. Meanwhile, in the ongoing implementation of the ten local livelihood

enterprises under the CBEDP at Carpenter Hill, Koronadal, South Cotabato, draw on return of investment (ROI) plan was conducted for each enterprise to validate viability and sustainability of business models. Currently, all ten enterprises have submitted the said financial plans and thus, fund disbursement is being processed.

“My God is a keeper...and so I must be...� (Deuteronomy 7: 6-11)

| 19

Seven Steps to Self Control

By CALABARZON 2 Staff

Kwento mo ba ‘to?

Ilabas ang tunay mong kulay!

Kami ang mga program assistants (PA) ng Tuguegarao branch. Excited sa trabaho, syempre fresh graduate yata ‘to! Higit sa lahat bago pa lang ang KMBI sa aming lugar. Fresh blood! Postura sa pagpasok sa opisina at handang magbilad sa araw kahit na mapuputi ang aming balat. Totoo po, mapuputi naman talaga kami dati. Pero wala kaming inisip kundi ang mabuo ang aming sampung sentro, “ang makatarget” ika nga sa lengwahe ng operation.

Sigurado kami na kayo rin ganiyan ang gustong mangyari, hindi ba?

Marami ang nagtatanong at nagsasabi bakit ba kami nagtitiis sa ganitong klase ng trabaho. Kahit mga magulang namin ay ayaw na kaming pabalikin sa KMBI. Ang sagot namin, hindi matatawaran ang trabaho natin bilang PA. Dito masusukat ang ating kakayahan, disiplina, tatag, dedikasyon, at diskarte. Natutunan naming mahalin ang trabahong ito dahil marami kaming natututunan sa reyaledad ng buhay at higit sa lahat ay nakakatulong pa kami sa maraming tao.

Di bale na kaming mangitim sa pagbibilad sa araw, basta makatulong sa maraming tao at sa aming pamilya.

E

xercising self control is a lifelong process but it is necessary to be healthy and happy. Below are some practical steps to self control: 1. Admit your problem. Denying problems makes situations more burdensome. It’s better to admit and work on solutions to lighten things up.

2. Put the past behind you. Focusing on the past guarantee repetition, but forgetting what lies behind and straining to what is ahead will put you on the right track.

3. Talk back to your feelings. Do not allow your mood or feelings to manipulate you or control your decisions. Many times feelings deceive us. Strive to deal and evaluate situations objectively.

4. Believe you can change. You are what you think you are. Believe you can change for the better.

5. Make yourself accountable. Be accountable of everything that you do.

That’s maturity!

6. Avoid temptation. Don’t give evil a chance. Know your weakness and plan in advance to avoid it.

7. Live a Christ-centered life. Trust the Lord with all your heart for He is the ultimate secret to self-control (Galatians 5:22).

Graphic source: http://christrescuemission.org

Our Vision

“To see people in communities live in abundance with strengthened faith in God and in right relationship with their fellowmen and the rest of creation”

Our Mission

“KMBI is a Christ-centered development organization, existing to help transform the lives of its clients and develop its human resources who will provide sustainable microfinance, training and demand-driven non-financial services.”

Core Values Respect Integrity Stewardship Commitment to the Poor Discipline Innovation Excellence

Mabbalo* KMBI! *Thank You

Organizational Performance

Goal 25.250 1st Quarter 2010

Indicators

“Reaching out to 250,000 Filipino households on our 25th year”

Efficiency

Loan Activity

Cost per Unit Lent

P0.18

Client Outreach

204,672

Cost per Loan Made

P1,034.90

Loan Portfolio

P536.50M

Financial Self-Sufficiency

96.41%

Value of Loans Made

P501.98M

Operational Self-Sufficiency

114.67%

Portfolio-at-Risk

7.13%

Ave. No. of Client per PA

257

MF Operations

1,203

No. of Loans Made

87,654

Support Group

88

20 | Communi-K • vol. 7 no.1

Number of Staff Kabalikat para sa Maunlad na Buhay, Inc. Head Office: KMBI Bldg., 12 San Francisco St., Karuhatan, Valenzuela City Tel (02) 291.1484 to 86 l Fax (02) 292.2441